What is the primary function of a crucible in chemistry?

The primary function of a crucible in chemistry is to allow for high-temperature reactions. Crucibles are specifically designed to withstand extreme heat and are used to contain substances during heating processes, such as melting metals or performing chemical reactions that require elevated temperatures. Their material composition is crucial, as it must resist thermal shock and chemical corrosion.

The other choices do not reflect the fundamental purpose of a crucible. While crucibles can be part of processes that involve dissolving or heating substances, their main role is about enduring and facilitating reactions that occur at high temperatures rather than conducting electricity or measuring temperature, which are functions associated with other types of laboratory equipment.